Many of us in Police on Guard have just returned from Ottawa and many of us are still on the ground there.

We wanted to provide an update, so you could hear the details from us, on exactly what is taking place in Ottawa.

Unfortunately, we are aware of what some of our country’s leaders and mainstream media are saying transpired. So, we want to be clear on what we witnessed while we were there and what is still taking place.

We witnessed nothing but love, kindness, peacefulness and patriotism from our fellow Canadians.

While there are always a few bad actors in every group, those that carried offensive messages or images, were asked to leave the area, as their message was not welcome. This was done without any violence or escalation of the situation.

Many protestors cleaned the streets of garbage, placing it in a central area to make it easier for the city to pick up. Proud Canadians from every walk of life that were in attendance also cleaned statues and monuments that were in any way treated poorly, while many others laid flowers at the tomb of the unknown soldier. We thanked the Police Officers for their service and were told on numerous occasions that this was one of the most peaceful demonstrations they have seen.

Ottawa Police Chief Sloly has called the protest a success and there were no riots or injuries at the rally, with some minor arrests under the Criminal Code.

This Peaceful Assembly is a guaranteed right under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We ask that everyone who is still in Ottawa, and those of you planning on attending, remember that violence is not the answer. The true Canadian spirit is on full display in our nation’s capital, and for that we should all be proud. If you see any issues that are concerning, contact the proper authorities immediately.

We support the Truckers and their peaceful right to assemble to end the mandates. Let’s all remember that we are united, in love, and that hate is not the answer.

Thank you to @erikalauren1111 for the video montage